Feds ground air traveler 'bill of rights'

A federal appeals court Tuesday struck down a state law that required airlines to provide basic necessities to passengers stuck on delayed planes.

The New York Airline Passenger Bill of Rights required airlines to provide food, fresh air and working bathrooms to passengers stuck on planes for over three hours. It was passed last year after a Valentine?s Day storm grounded countless flights at JFK International Airport. Thousands of travelers complained they were not given necessities while on the tarmac for 10 hours.

The decision by the court states only the federal government, which oversees the airline industry, can pass such a law. The federal court praised the law, but said it could lead to other state?s passing similar laws that could eventually disrupt airline business.

Some travelers at Westchester County Airport in Harrison are upset with the decision. They say they should be able to have access to their basic necessities if stranded on planes. While some travelers agree with the government?s decision, they say no one should ever be denied food, water and fresh air.